‘It was difficult for them to say goodbye ... they were in love’, says Brisbane friend of murdered French student Sophie Collombet

THE French student murdered in a Brisbane park was left battered and naked in a brutal attack - and her clothes have yet to be found.

THE boyfriend of murdered international student Sophie Collombet played a key role in identifying the 21-year-old, calling police from France when he recognised her jewellery after seeing the items online.

The man, known as Boris, had left Australia only a month earlier after his visa ran out, leaving Ms Collombet, who was found brutally murdered in Brisbane on Friday, heartbroken.

She had been planning to move back to France in June to be with him.

Friends of the couple last night told The Courier-Mail that Boris gave police the vital lead after they pleaded with the public on Sunday to come forward if they noticed a missing friend, relative or colleague.

Meanwhile, detectives are scrambling to piece together Sophie’s missing final hours and find her belongings.

Detective Inspector Rod Kemp said Ms Collombet was last seen in long, dark pants, black ankle boots, a sleeveless knitted beige shirt and a white shoulder bag, which are all missing.